Mountain Biking Safety: Your Essential Guide to Helmet Selection

Feeling overwhelmed by all the mountain biking gear choices out there? You're not alone! Choosing a helmet and body protection is super important, and with so many options, it can get confusing. In this blog post, we'll break down the basics and help you make informed choices, so you feel safe and confident on the trails.

Types of Mountain Bike Helmets

Let's look at the most common mountain bike helmet styles and who they're best suited for:

• Half-Shell Helmets: These are the most versatile. They cover the top and sides of your head and the back for good protection. Perfect for beginners, cross-country riders, and most trail riding.
• Full-Face Enduro Helmets: These look like the big downhill helmets with a chin bar for extra protection on rougher trails but they are a lot lighter and more breathable. Some even have a removable chin bar that makes it 2 helmets in one! If you're pushing yourself with more technical rides, this style is a good choice.
• Full-Face Helmets: Offering maximum protection, these helmets have a chin bar and are usually slightly heavier. They're primarily for downhill and extreme enduro riding where falls at higher speeds are more likely.

What about MIPS?

MIPS (Multi-directional Impact Protection System) is a technology found in many helmets. It's a thin extra layer inside the helmet that helps reduce rotational forces on the brain during angled impacts. While not strictly essential, it's a highly recommended safety feature.

Price vs. Protection

More expensive helmets don't always equal better protection. All helmets sold in New Zealand must meet safety standards. Pricier helmets generally offer:

• Lighter weight: Reducing fatigue on long rides.
• Better ventilation: Keeps you cooler.
• More comfortable fit: Adjustable straps and padding.

To help you with your selection, we recommend visiting the Virginia Tech website, this is the lab who's developed the safety standards for helmets and is the reference for manufacturers and helmet certification. Their website offers a ranking of all the helmets they have tested for different type of cycling activities. They have tested most of the common half shell helmets available on the market.

Fit is Everything!

A helmet is only effective if it fits correctly. Here's how to find a good fit:

• 1. Measure your head: Use a measuring tape just above your eyebrows.
• 2. Try before you buy: Helmets should be snug but not tight. Don't be afraid to try on different brands and styles to find what feels most comfortable.
• 3. Adjust the straps: Make sure the helmet sits level on your head, not tilting back or forward.

Don't Forget the Fun Factor

Helmets come in tons of colours and styles! Choose one that makes you feel great and excited to ride.

Beyond the Helmet

As you progress, consider extra protection:

• Knee and Elbow Pads: Great for beginners and those riding technical terrain.
• Gloves: Protect your hands and improve grip.
• Eye Protection: Glasses or goggles shield you from dust and branches.

Keep an eye out for our future blog post on the subject.

Remember, We're Here to Help!

Feeling a bit more confident? The team at Be Spoke is always happy to answer questions and help you find the perfect gear to make your mountain biking adventures more comfortable. Join our Spoke Sisters community rides for a chance to see what other women are using and get their recommendations too!